Peterhead v Cowdenbeath

Season 2009/10 kicks off on Saturday with a long trip north to face 2nd Division Peterhead in the 1st round of the MG ALBA Cup. Cowden have enjoyed a good pre-season but Peterhead will provide a significant test for Danny Lennon's young side. The Blue Toon, have experienced campaigners such as Bobby Mann, Dougie Cameron and Martin Bavidge in their ranks, only missed out on promotion to the 1st Division last season after losing in the play-off. “I have always found Peterhead difficult opponents as both a player and a manager - I don't expect any different this time around", said Lennon. “They finished in a play-off position last season and narrowly missed out on promotion to the 1st division so we know the quality we are up against. “The boys are looking forward to the first game of the season and will be going out on the park full of confidence. We have had a good pre-season and I have been delighted with their application and attitude." Paul McQuade (pictured), Brian Fairbairn and Kenny Adamson missed most of the end of last season through injury but the trio are now fully fit. Darren McGregor (knee) and Jay Shields (foot) will miss the game but Mark Ramsay is due to play 45 minutes against Dundonald Bluebell on Friday night and could come back into contention after injury. McGregor had a successful operation on his knee earlier this week and is making good progress after the first week of rehabilitation. The big defender, who carried over a suspension after being sent off again Stenhousemuir at the end of last season, has pencilled in the 15th August for his return to 1st team action.